Quick Answer
Your 2025 AGI is on line 11 of Form 1040. If you used tax software, look for 'AGI' or 'Adjusted Gross Income' in your return copy. If you can't find your return, request a tax transcript from the IRS — 93% of taxpayers can get one online instantly at IRS.gov.
Best Answer
Robert Kim, CPA
Best for anyone who filed a tax return last year and needs to find their AGI
Where to find your 2025 AGI on your tax return
Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for 2025 is located on line 11 of Form 1040. This is the most important number on your tax return — it's your total income minus specific deductions like retirement contributions, student loan interest, and health savings account contributions.
If you used tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA, your AGI will be clearly labeled as "Adjusted Gross Income" or "AGI" on your return summary or final review screen.
Example: Finding your AGI step by step
Let's say you're looking at your 2025 Form 1040:
That $64,000 on line 11 is your AGI — the number you need for your 2026 tax return.
If you can't find your paper return
Don't panic if you've lost your tax documents. You have several options:
Option 1: Get a tax transcript online (fastest)
The IRS provides free tax transcripts at [IRS.gov/transcripts](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript). About 93% of taxpayers can access their transcript immediately by verifying their identity online. Your AGI will be clearly shown on the "Return Transcript."
Option 2: Request by phone
Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9946. You'll need:
Option 3: Mail request (slowest)
Complete Form 4506-T and mail it to the IRS. This takes 5-10 business days.
Different AGI amounts you might see
Why your AGI matters for your current return
Tax software asks for your prior year AGI as an identity verification step. The IRS uses this to confirm you're really you — not someone trying to file a fraudulent return with your information.
If you enter the wrong AGI, your return may be rejected or delayed. According to IRS data, incorrect prior year AGI is one of the top 5 reasons for electronic filing rejections.
What you should do
1. Check your records first: Look for your 2025 tax return copy or tax software account
2. Use the IRS transcript tool: Go to IRS.gov/transcripts if you can't find your return
3. Write it down: Once you find your AGI, save it in a secure place for future reference
4. Update your records: If you discover your AGI is different than expected, double-check your current year calculations
Key takeaway: Your 2025 AGI is on line 11 of Form 1040, and 93% of taxpayers can get it instantly online through IRS transcripts if they've lost their return copy.
*Sources: [IRS Publication 17](https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p17.pdf), [IRS Get Transcript](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript)*
Key Takeaway: Your AGI is on line 11 of Form 1040, and you can get it instantly online from IRS transcripts if you've lost your return.
Different ways to find your AGI based on how you filed
| Filing Method | Where to Find AGI | Backup Option |
|---|---|---|
| Self-prepared (paper) | Line 11 of your Form 1040 copy | IRS transcript online |
| Tax software (online) | Login to software account | Email confirmation from filing |
| Tax preparer (CPA/service) | Copy of return they gave you | Contact preparer directly |
| First-time filer | No prior AGI needed | Enter 0 or select first-time option |
More Perspectives
Diana Flores, EA
Perfect for people who have never filed taxes before or are unfamiliar with tax forms
What is AGI and why do you need it?
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) might sound complicated, but it's simply your total income minus certain deductions. Think of it as your "taxable starting point" — the number the IRS uses to determine your tax bracket and eligibility for various credits.
For first-time filers, your AGI from last year is usually required when you start filling out your current tax return. Tax software uses this as a security check to make sure you're really you.
The simplest way to find it
If you filed taxes last year (even if someone else prepared them), you should have received a copy of your completed Form 1040. Look for line 11 — that's your AGI.
Example for a simple return:
What if you've never filed before?
If 2026 is your first time filing taxes, you won't have a prior year AGI. Most tax software will have an option like "First time filer" or "No prior year return." You can usually enter "0" or leave it blank.
Getting help if you're stuck
Don't feel embarrassed if this feels overwhelming — tax forms can be confusing even for experienced filers. The IRS offers free help through:
Key takeaway: Your AGI is just your income minus certain deductions, found on line 11 of last year's Form 1040 — if you can't find it, the IRS can provide a free copy online.
Key Takeaway: Your AGI is just your income minus certain deductions, found on line 11 of last year's Form 1040 — if you can't find it, the IRS can provide a free copy online.
Robert Kim, CPA
Ideal for taxpayers who had their returns prepared by a CPA, tax service, or online software
When someone else prepared your return
If you used a tax preparer, CPA, or tax service like H&R Block last year, they should have given you a complete copy of your filed return. Your AGI is still on line 11 of Form 1040, even if you didn't personally fill out the form.
What to look for in your tax package:
If you used online tax software
Tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block Online, or FreeTaxUSA keeps your returns in your account for several years. Log back into your account and look for:
Pro tip: Most tax software sends you an email confirmation with key numbers, including your AGI, when you file. Search your email for "tax return filed" or the software company name.
Contacting your tax preparer
If you can't find your return copy, contact whoever prepared your taxes. Professional tax preparers are required to keep copies of returns for at least three years. They can quickly tell you your AGI over the phone or email you a copy.
What information to have ready:
Double-checking the number
Sometimes tax preparers make mistakes or you might be looking at the wrong year's return. Your 2025 AGI should make sense based on your 2025 income:
Key takeaway: Your tax preparer should have given you a complete copy of your return with the AGI on line 11, and most can provide a duplicate copy if you've lost the original.
Key Takeaway: Your tax preparer should have given you a complete copy of your return with the AGI on line 11, and most can provide a duplicate copy if you've lost the original.
Sources
- IRS Publication 17 — Your Federal Income Tax (Individual Tax Guide)
- IRS Get Transcript — Online tool to access tax transcripts
Related Questions
Reviewed by Robert Kim, CPA on February 28, 2026
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.